CULTURE — May 10, 2026

Afghan Poet Shamim Forotan Wins Literary Award in Italy

Afghan poet and former journalist Shamim Forotan has received a literary award at the 17th Franco Loy International Literary Festival in Grottammare, Italy.

The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Hasht-e Subh2 min read

Afghan Poet Shamim Forotan Wins Literary Award in Italy
Image courtesy Hasht-e Subh

Shamim Forotan, an Afghan poet and former journalist, has received a literary award at the 17th Franco Loy International Literary Festival. The event took place in Grottammare, Italy.

The festival organization announced the award on Sunday, April 20. Forotan is a former reporter for the Hasht-e Subh (8am) newspaper, a role he held prior to his relocation to Europe.

Following the collapse of the previous Afghan government, Forotan sought asylum in Italy. His recognition at the international festival in Grottammare marks a significant achievement for the poet, who continues to engage with literary circles while living in exile.

Read the original reporting at Hasht-e Subh

Reliability assessment

A single source provides concrete, checkable details, including the specific name of the award, the city of the event (Grottammare), the edition of the festival (17th), and the specific identity and background of the recipient.

The source language mixes facts with framing or advocacy wording. Hasht-e Subh: "prominent examples of the brilliance of contemporary Afghan literature" is an evaluative, celebratory phrase that moves beyond neutral reporting.

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CultureShamim Forotan, Franco Loy Literary Festival, Italy, Afghan Literature

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